The Benue State Police Command on Wednesday confirmed the kidnapping of two female students from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM).
The incident, which occurred on Saturday night along the road leading to the university, has left the community in shock.
Witnesses report that the abduction took place around 11 pm along the North Bank/UniAgric road in Makurdi.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Catherine Anene, who confirmed the incident to journalists in Makurdi, stated that the identities of the affected students would not be disclosed at this time.
SP Anene provided further details, explaining that the kidnappers had blocked the road, accosted the victims, and whisked them away before security operatives could arrive at the scene.
She emphasized that the incident did not occur within the university campus itself.
“The families of the victims and school authorities have notified the police, and an investigation into the matter has already commenced,” Anene said.
When contacted, Deputy Registrar for Information and Public Relations at the university, Mrs. Lucy Iwodi, stated that she was yet to obtain the necessary permission from the school’s authority to speak about the matter.
The abduction has sparked concerns about the safety and security of students in the area.
As investigations continue, the police urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the rescue efforts.
This incident underscores the growing security challenges faced by educational institutions in the country and the urgent need for enhanced protective measures to safeguard students and staff.
